Multiaxial and Transparent Strain Sensors Based on Synergetically Reinforced and Orthogonally Cracked Hetero‐Nanocrystal Solids

Abstract

AbstractWearable strain sensors are widely researched as core components in electronic skin. However, their limited capability of detecting only a single axial strain, and their low sensitivity, stability, opacity, and high production costs hinder their use in advanced applications. Herein, multiaxially highly sensitive, optically transparent, chemically stable, and solution‐processed strain sensors are demonstrated. Transparent indium tin oxide and zinc oxide nanocrystals serve as metallic and insulating components in a metal–insulator matrix and as active materials for strain gauges. Synergetic sensitivity‐ and stability‐reinforcing agents are developed using a transparent SU‐8 polymer to enhance the sensitivity and encapsulate the devices, elevating the gauge factor up to over 3000 by blocking the reconnection of cracks caused by the Poisson effect. Cross‐shaped patterns with an orthogonal crack strategy are developed to detect a complex multiaxial strain, efficiently distinguishing strains applied in various directions with high sensitivity and selectivity. Finally, all‐transparent wearable strain sensors with Ag nanowire electrodes are fabricated using an all‐solution process, which effectively measure not only the human motion or emotion, but also the multiaxial strains occurring during human motion in real time. The strategies can provide a pathway to realize cost‐effective and high‐performance wearable sensors for advanced applications such as bio‐integrated devices.